Harlingen CISD

At HCISD, every elementary classroom reflects a modern, student-centered approach to teaching and learning. Flexible furniture, dynamic layouts, and up-to-date technology create engaging spaces that foster creativity, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration. We remain dedicated to continually transforming our classrooms to inspire curiosity, support diverse learning styles, and ensure every student is prepared to succeed in today’s ever-changing world.

HCISD partners with Head Start NINOS, Inc. to offer a high-quality PK-3 program currently available at five elementary campuses: Bowie, Ben Milam, Jefferson, Lamar, Sam Houston, and Zavala Elementary. Families interested in PK-3 must first complete an application with Head Start to ensure they meet qualification requirements; once approved, they may then proceed to register with HCISD.

Focusing on early childhood development, HCISD offers a full-day Pre-K model for PK-4 students with no eligibility requirements—every child has the opportunity to attend. Our nurturing classrooms help young learners build a strong foundation for lifelong learning, thrive academically and socially, and spark a love for learning from the very start.

Visit our Enroll webpage for more registration information.  

Dual Language Program at HCISD

Harlingen CISD proudly offers a Dual Language Enrichment Program at select campuses, providing students with the opportunity to become bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural while achieving academic excellence in both English and Spanish.

Our dual language campuses include:
Means Elementary, Milam Elementary, Houston Elementary, Lamar Elementary, Wilson Elementary, and Early Childhood Academy (ECA).

Through this program, students learn academic content in both languages, fostering cultural appreciation, high academic achievement, and future-ready skills for a global society.

For more information about enrolling your child in our Dual Language Program, contact your campus or the HCISD Multi-Language Programs Department today!

At Lee H. Means Elementary Fine Arts Academy, students explore and develop their creative talents through a unique, vertically aligned curriculum that integrates dance, music, visual arts, and theater. In addition to daily learning experiences, students can participate in free after-school enrichment opportunities that help them grow as artists and performers. Learn more about what makes Lee H. Means Elementary a vibrant place for young artists to shine. Lee H Means Elementary.

Austin and Sam Houston Elementary are proud to be International Baccalaureate (IB) World Schools! The IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) provides a rigorous, inquiry-based curriculum designed to develop active, caring, lifelong learners who demonstrate respect for themselves, others, and the world around them. Students benefit from a multilingual approach and global-minded learning experiences that help them become thoughtful, compassionate, and knowledgeable citizens. Learn more about Austin Elementary and Sam Houston Elementary. 

HCISD is proud to have Dishman Elementary represent our district as a National Blue Ribbon School — one of the most prestigious honors a school can receive in the United States. This recognition celebrates Dishman’s academic excellence and reflects the hard work, dedication, and commitment of its students, families, and staff. As a Blue Ribbon School, Dishman Elementary serves as a shining example of what is possible when a school community works together to help every child succeed. Learn more about Dishman Elementary.

Apple Distinguished Schools represent centers of innovation, leadership, and educational excellence, leveraging technology to foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking among students. Crockett and Zavala Elementary proudly hold this prestigious designation. Our students engage with authentic digital content while benefiting from differentiated instruction tailored to their individual learning needs. Discover more about Crockett Elementary and Zavala Elementary.

HCISD is dedicated to delivering comprehensive water safety education through our innovative Safely Educating Aquatic Learners (SEAL). In a supportive, engaging, and encouraging environment, all second-grade students develop essential water safety skills and aquatic awareness at the district's state-of-the-art aquatic facility. This vital program combines hands-on learning with positive reinforcement, ensuring students gain confidence and knowledge that can protect them for a lifetime.

At Harlingen CISD, elementary students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on, future-ready learning through our comprehensive robotics program. From coding and engineering to design thinking and innovation, students explore the world of STEM through a rich, inquiry-based experience that incorporates the 5 Es (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate).

Our robotics program emphasizes critical skills such as creative problem-solving, collaboration, and real-world application of technology. Through building and programming robots, students learn to navigate challenges, think innovatively, and develop solution skills that mirror those needed in tomorrow’s workforce.We are proud to offer personalized learning experiences that empower students and nurture their passions. Throughout the year, students showcase their skills in both district and regional competitions, celebrating their growth as young engineers and innovators.

Our commitment is clear: to provide every elementary student with opportunities that inspire, challenge, and prepare them for a bright, tech-driven future.

Chess is a precise and logical game that requires an ability to strategize and express creativity. Research shows that children who play chess can score higher on standardized testing and have a more highly developed visual memory. At HCISD, students can begin learning the fundamentals of chess as early as Pre-K. HCISD chess teams compete at the state and national level.

The newly introduced Tennis and First Tee Golf Program provides all HCISD third grade students the opportunity to learn how to play golf and tennis. Along with the great exercise these sports provide, students develop valuable skills of responsibility, discipline, perseverance, problem solving and mental strength.

HCISD fourth-grade students are learning the fundamentals of nutrition and health through the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service G.R.O.W. program. Throughout the year, these students learn how to garden and study the nutritional benefits behind what they are growing.